Friday, Feb. 6, 2009

Friday 02/06/2009

Today, Friday we had a debriefing conference with Father Alex, Lilia, Maris, and Doctor Bob Gehringer in the dining room of the Volunteer House. It was a time to reflect on the week’s activities, and to see how we might better solidify the relationship between the Parroquia Beata Teresa De Calcuta and Affinity Health System. We have seen more in one week than many may see in a lifetime.

Father Alex and his staff are indeed the epitome of being thy brother’s keeper. They give to other from the heart. The unique thing about how they are paid for their services is that it is practically volunteer. They serve the poorest of the poor in the example of Mother Theresa. They do not receive any set pay, but rather divide the pot equally of what is left after all expenses are covered regardless of rank. This is never very much. People come to the Clinic because they know they will be treated with the utmost respect, and with compassionate care.

We discussed many different ways that we can be good stewards in helping the poor of the clinic through the sharing of our time, talent and treasure. There are many ways that we can help, whether it is in Arequipa or in the Affinity Community. Dr Larry Donnetelle and Sally Marohn had come up with practically the same ideas as far as the best utilization of space for the clinic. There ideas came from Lean experience on how to make the space work best for the staff and patients. Bernadine Nitz discussed better allocation of duties by staff. It is difficult to be too critical, because the staff of the clinic work miracles with the space and resources that they have. The clinic does not turn anyone away.

Many of the ideas that were discussed were not new to the staff, as they have observed the need for some changes also. Since they are working for what is left after everyone is cared for, expense is an item always to consider. They have made the most of the limited IT resources available to them. It is really quite incredible what they have accomplished using bright part-time student programmers to accomplish what they need. Lilia and Maris do a wonderful job finding what is needed and managing to find a way to get it done. One thing that really would help them would be a server with a networkable system. We are so blessed at Affinity to have great people that work with us regarding our needs. Perhaps there is away that we can share this talent.

Lunch followed with sharing of our experiences and our commitment to the mission here. Every meal generally has a homemade soup that has everything in it. These are very tasty and include pumpkin, onions, squash and a section of corn cob floating in the broth. The Peruvian corn has very large kernels and is delicious. Veronica is the cook at the volunteer house and has a talent for making us all feel welcome and well provided for.

After lunch we proceeded to town for some sightseeing. The highpoint of this afternoon was visiting The Monastery of St. Catherine. This is an ancient convent, dating back to the 16th century, which occupies two blocks in the center of the city of Arequipa. The carvings, arches, lintels and artwork were amazing. The custom here, among Spanish aristocracy was that the second born daughter would be presented to the convent, along with a substantial dowry. It was a true citadel of the the medieval period surrounded by a high wall with an inner area centered around several courtyards and gardens. If this daughter chose to leave, then the only choice for her was to be married to someone fifty years or older. The majority did not leave. Talk about a commitment.

We continued the rest of the afternoon walking under the archways of the Plaza de Armas. This is the heart of the city. Many folks come here to relax in one of the few public green areas. Throughout all of history this is where all the important celebrations have been held. The Cathedral of Arequipa is in the background. Tremors from the occasional earthquake as well as the city’s traffic caused the steeples to collapse a few years ago. The city restored them, recently, to their original grandeur.

Friday evening was reserved for a fiesta or party with everyone that we had worked or consulted with. Approximately thirty-five were in attendance, which included most everyone from the clinic, our driver, Veronica our cook, our student translators, Dr. Bob Gehringer, Karen and Steve. What a great time to sit down with these wonderful, caring individuals, and enjoy the evening of good company, food and music. The entrees for the night were cow’s heart, tongue, intestine, kidney, as well as pork and chicken. Nothing goes to waste here; everything is consumed or used in some manner or fashion. It makes one think how much we waste in our culture in the states. Cuy or guinea pig was not on the menu this evening, although it is a culinary tradition that everyone love. A Peruvian drink that was enjoyed by all was the pisco sour. Something we all enjoyed whether from Peru or the United States.

The conversation was great and there are some things universal in language; like the admiration that have for each other. We are soon to depart from a group of people that are very dedicated and caring in serving those less advantaged with the limited resources that they have at their disposal. The end of the party was filled with dancing to the music of the restaurant’s disc jockey. There are not any barriers here, just friendship. We enjoyed the evening and helped deliver many of the clinic personnel home via the volunteer van.

God bless,
John